20 December 2005

Real talent on Display! (link to display video)

“Lets have a small Christmas display where the children can show their parents and friends what they have been learning this year,” was the innocent comment made by one of the head coaches at the Esprit Academy of Gymnastics in Stratton earlier in the year.

That simple comment led to, what can only be described, for all those that came to watch, as one as the most memorable events of this year. After it was decided to hold the display a poster advertising the fact was displayed in the academy and within 48 hours the event was sold out with more than 250 tickets being sold. Tickets sold so quickly another date was hastily arranged which also sold out immediately and the pressure was really on to put on a great show.

And the gymnasts from Esprit didn’t disappoint. The club’s reputation has grown very quickly since it opened in 2004 and this show showed exactly why. The young performers, between five and 15 were absolutely fantastic, performing a variety of different gymnastic routines including, tumbling, amazing feats of strength, flexibility, dance and trampoline and the gymnastics, which was expertly choreographed to music and lights, was of the very highest quality. One parent commented that the show proved exactly why Esprit’s claim for the club – where every child is a champion – is appropriate. There were no superstars and no billings proclaiming any one child as being more important than another. Every child played their part magnificently and they were all supported superbly by the coaches, as well as an expert announcer who introduced the routines and ensured the audience new exactly what was happening.

It must be said however that the coaches really did play their part, not content with choreographing the show, preparing the gymnasts and organising the event, they found time to prepare their very own gymnastics and dance routine. This showstopper really was a great hit with the audience who laughed and encouraged every move, from beginning to end. It really was a brilliant twist to a very impressive show.

With the show being such a success it has been agreed that it will now become an annual event. The only problem that can be foreseen is being able to accommodate all of the people that have already requested tickets for next year.

A professional DVD has been made of the show, which is now on sale at the Academy. With proceeds donated to club funds. Telephone 01793 822262.

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